Bowden acknowledges that the Zips do not have the size, speed or athleticism to make a dent in conference play, but redshirt sophomore tailback Jawon Chisholm is a good starting point for rebuilding. He ran for a freshman team record 961 yards and averaged 4.4 yards per carry. Senior Dalton Williams, a transfer from Stephen F. Austin, will start at quarterback. He threw for 724 yards and seven touchdowns in a backup role last season. The best offensive lineman by far is

6-foot-4, 285-pound Adam Bice, who has moved from center to right tackle.

Exclamation points

There are not many players to get excited about after Chisholm and Bice. Former Ohio State recruit Jamel Turner, a defensive end/linebacker from Youngstown Ursuline will be eligible this season.

Question marks

To call Akron a work in progress is an understatement. The quarterback situation is iffy at best. Williams was named the starter soon after camp started, and that prompted Clayton Moore to transfer to Jackson State. The defense, though, could be the biggest concern. It allowed 40 points or more five times in 2011.

Outlook

Akron has been picked to finish sixth — not last — in the division, but keep in mind that Massachusetts has just entered the MAC and FBS. Bowden has said the team’s immediate goal should be to win two games; the Zips were 1-11 in 2010 and ’11 under Rob Ianello.